From the hustle and bustle of Colombo, Sri Lanka, to the tranquil landscapes of Tasmania, Dr Chandima shares her family’s journey to Australia and the exciting opportunities that await them.
Dr Chandima began her medical career in Sri Lanka, graduating with an MBBS from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. She then went on to work in both Sri Lanka and Singapore before deciding to take the next step in her career and relocate to Australia.
For Dr Chandima, becoming a GP was inspired by the balance the specialty offers, flexibility, lifestyle, and financial stability. More importantly, she was drawn to the holistic nature of general practice. “Caring for patients throughout their entire lives and being part of their ongoing health journey is what makes this career so rewarding.”
Australia appealed to Dr Chandima and her family for its relaxed culture, pleasant climate, and strong family-friendly benefits. The country’s excellent education system and advanced healthcare also made it an attractive place to raise a family.
Tasmania’s natural beauty, fresh air, world-class food and wine, and welcoming people were strong motivators. The slower pace of life and less crowded lifestyle compared to larger cities made Hobart the perfect choice.
Dr Chandima first heard about DXC Medical through a GP friend who had already relocated to Australia. Their positive experience encouraged her to reach out. “It was one of the best decisions I made,”she reflects.
The relocation and registration process took around 10 months in total. With DXC Medical guiding her throughout, the journey was far smoother than she had expected. “I’m especially grateful to Nethmi, who was a constant source of support throughout the process, even taking the time to meet with me in person when visiting Sri Lanka earlier in the year”.
In January 2025, Nethmi met with Dr Chandima in Sri Lanka, and it was clear then how committed she was to advancing her career in Australia. Under the PEP Specialist Pathway, she submitted her AHPRA application in February and received her registration in May. Soon after, her visa was approved in July, paving the way for the next chapter. Dr Chandima and her family arrived in Hobart on 4th September, and she officially began her orientation on 9th September, ready to embark on her journey as a GP in Australia.
Thanks to DXC’s assistance not only with paperwork but also with everyday living arrangements, Dr Chandima and her family settled in with minimal challenges.
Now working at Ochre Medical Centre Hobart, Dr Chandima has embraced the transition into Australian general practice.
One of the biggest differences she has observed is the healthcare system. “In Australia, Medicare ensures everyone has access to high-quality care, with GPs as the central point of patient management. In Sri Lanka, patients often go directly to specialists. While Sri Lanka achieves good outcomes with limited resources, Australia’s system is globally recognised for its safety, quality, and affordability.”
The efficiency of electronic patient record systems has been another standout. “It’s systematic, efficient, and such a valuable tool in delivering quality care.” Whilst it is an adjustment adapting to the IT systems in general practice, she believes once mastered they will prove invaluable to her work.
Currently, Dr Chandima is deepening her expertise in key areas of general practice, with a focus on obesity, women’s health, and mental health. She is passionate about providing holistic care, supporting patients in achieving long-term wellbeing, and staying up-to-date with the latest advances in these fields.
For Dr Chandima and her family, the move has been an exciting adventure. While cultural differences take some adjustment, the family is settling in well to their new environment.
They’re enjoying exploring new food, leisure activities, the colder weather, and Tasmania’s stunning natural scenery. They look forward to discovering more of what Tasmania has to offer as they settle in more.
Her advice for other international GPs? “Go for it. Life here is better, the government pays a good salary for our service, and the work-life balance is unmatched. I absolutely recommend the journey, it has lived up to my expectations, and I truly enjoy my new life here.”
If you’re a GP considering relocating to Australia, take the leap, you won’t regret it. As Nethmi helped Dr Chamdima, she can also help you.
Nethmi Fernando
Senior Consultant
Melbourne Office
+61 452 240 355
nethmi.fernando@dxcmedical.com.au
